Who can press charges? A criminal case is not like a civil case, in which you can file a lawsuit against the person who wronged you. Instead, the prosecutor’s office files criminal charges. You may influence the decision, but in the end it’s up to the prosecutor. In most cases you’ll get a criminal case started by filing a police report.
If you are looking to press charges for an assault, or if you already have pressed charges, it is advisable to find legal representation. Victims who have been harmed by an aggressor in an assault should hire a personal injury lawyer.
However, if the victim is suing you for their injuries, hiring a personal injury defense lawyer will be your best bet. After police officers obtain the details that they need from the victims, they will then issue the victim’s copies of the reports that they filed.
After filing the charges, remember to keep a record of the assault report, as well as maintain the integrity of any evidence you have in your possession that could help the authorities. If you are looking to press charges for an assault, or if you already have pressed charges, it is advisable to find legal representation.
When charges are pressed, the accused person may have to go to trial. Pressing charges is different than suing in civil court. When a person decides to take this action, he will not benefit monetarily as a result of the outcome of the case.
Definition of press charges : to take legal action against someone : to officially accuse someone of a crime He was caught shoplifting, but the store owner didn't press charges.
But many people have the false impressing that anyone can press charges. Individuals do not press charges, nor do police. In the context of the criminal law, only a municipal, state, or federal attorney can decide to charge someone with a crime and file a charging document.
Pressing comes from the verb press, "to push against" or "to squeeze out," and later also "to urge or argue for." Definitions of pressing. adjective. compelling immediate action. “too pressing to permit of longer delay”
Definition of bring charges against : to charge (someone) with a crime They are going to bring charges against him.
The first step to have someone charged with a criminal offence is to report a crime to police. To report a crime in progress, dial 9-1-1. Otherwise, phone the local police non-emergency line to see if you can make a report by phone, or whether you have to go to the police station.